NewsNation, a rapidly expanding cable news network, achieved a significant milestone on Sunday, September 21, 2025, by surpassing both CNN and MSNBC in viewership for six consecutive hours. The network’s performance was particularly strong in both total viewers and the coveted 25-54 age demographic, according to data from the Nielsen panel. From 1:00 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. ET, NewsNation averaged 615,000 total viewers and 173,000 viewers in the 25-54 demographic, outperforming CNN’s 342,000 total viewers and 54,000 in the demographic, as well as MSNBC’s 287,000 total viewers and 31,000 in the same age group.
The standout performance came during special coverage of a memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk, anchored by chief Washington correspondent Leland Vittert, followed by a special edition of NewsNation Now with anchor Nichole Berlie. Viewership peaked at 3:57 p.m. ET, reaching nearly 2 million total viewers, a remarkable increase of almost 1,000 percent compared to the network’s typical Sunday audience for that time slot. This surge contributed to NewsNation recording its highest-rated Sunday ever, with an average of 222,000 total viewers and 56,000 in the 25-54 demographic for the entire day.
This achievement marks a continuation of NewsNation’s recent upward trajectory. The previous Saturday, the network had already outperformed CNN and MSNBC during primetime, but the Sunday results were historic. It was the first time NewsNation surpassed both competitors in both total viewers and the 25-54 demographic for such an extended period. The strong performance underscores the network’s growing appeal, particularly among younger viewers, a key focus for advertisers.
The week of September 21 also stood out as NewsNation’s highest-rated week to date in 2025. Compared to the previous week, the network saw a 21 percent increase in total viewers and a 42 percent jump in the 25-54 demographic. These gains highlight NewsNation’s ability to attract a broad audience during significant news events, positioning it as a formidable player in the cable news landscape.
While CNN and MSNBC have long dominated the industry, NewsNation’s recent viewership numbers suggest a shift in audience preferences. The network’s focus on in-depth coverage of high-profile events appears to be resonating with viewers, contributing to its steady climb in the competitive cable news market. As NewsNation continues to expand its programming and reach, its ability to challenge established networks in both total audience and key demographics signals a notable development in the industry.
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